The first big story of 2011: Oprah’s network to launch

Media mogul Oprah Winfrey expands her brand on Jan. 1 as she launches her own TV network, OWN. (That’s short for Oprah Winfrey Network.) As soon as that ball drops in Times Square, you can flip on over to her new channel, though the content will just be a bunch of teases for the first 12 hours or so. But it still might be better than those after midnight guests on Dick Clark. The real programming begins at noon with Oprah’s Guide to OWN. (OK, so I guess that’s still not real programming, but it IS Oprah.) OK, maybe the real programming starts with the sneak peek at “Kidnapped by the Kids,” a show in which workaholic parents have to spend time with their kids (watching OWN?). Then next up is “Oprah Presents Master Class,” which are profiles on the best of the best. First up is Jay Z. Next on the show will be Diane Sawyer. Other shows will feature Dr. Phil, Dr. Laura Berman, Suze Orman, Dr. Mehmet Oz and Gayle King. Plus, Oprah will search for the next star on a competition series. And a behind-the-scenes series will look at the final season of Oprah. What do you think of OWN? Are you ready for an entire network of spiritual, feel-good self-help shows? And what can they add to the slate? (I’m being serious here…, so no suggestions for a “Family Guy” spinoff.)